In Lyon, there are two types of evenings: those where you end up with a drink in hand, and those where you find yourself inexplicably dancing near the stage while a musician plays a guitar solo.
The city is full of bars where music thrives all night long. Whether it’s jam sessions, hybrid clubs, or open stages, whether you’re into jazz, rock, or rap, there’s definitely a place for you. Here are 10 places where you can listen to live music while enjoying a few drinks (in moderation, of course).
If you’re feeling lazy, here’s a summary: there are plenty of great places to listen to music in Lyon. Many of them are located in the Pentes de la Croix-Rousse area. Follow the Instagram accounts of these places to keep track of their events, and keep an eye out for Ninkasi Musik Lab evenings to catch free concerts.
La Grooverie (Lyon 1)
La Grooverie in the 1st district is a cozy venue. Their 70’s blues programming with garage, swing, folk, groove, and funk allows for a variety of experiences depending on the evening. You’ll love this bar for its lively jam sessions and DJ sets that get everyone moving.
Location: 9 rue du Jardin des Plantes, Lyon, 69001 Operating Hours: 6:00 pm to 1:00 am (Tue-Sat) Instagram: Link
Groom (Lyon 1)
Groom is primarily known for its electro nights but also serves as a concert hall. Stay tuned to their lineup to catch rock, pop, and folk music. The venue has a cool atmosphere, and the bar’s cocktails are delicious.
Location: 6 Rue Roger Violi, 69001 Lyon Operating Hours: 6:00 pm to 4:00 am (Fri-Sat), 6:00 pm to 1:00 am (Wed), 6:00 pm to 2:00 am (Thu) Instagram: Link
Le Trokson (Lyon 1)
The Trokson is certainly the temple of rock, punk, and garage in Lyon. This small bar is a legendary place in the Pentes de la Croix-Rousse area, known for its well-curated programming featuring talents from all over France and Europe. And the best part, all concerts are free!
Location: 110 Mnt de la Grande-Côte, 69001 Lyon Operating Hours: 5:00 pm to 1:00 am (Tue-Sat) Instagram: Link
La Pente (Lyon 1)
Perched on the slopes of the Croix-Rousse, La Pente has earned a great reputation in just 2 years. It’s a bar that hosts a variety of events, including DJ sets, concerts, live performances, and even vernissages. The venue comes alive with different music experiences throughout the week.
Location: 14 Mnt des Carmélites, 69001 Lyon Operating Hours: Vary by day Instagram: Link
Mademoiselle Simone (Lyon 2)
Mademoiselle Simone is not your typical restaurant. Some evenings, it turns into a jazz club where the piano sets the mood. Don’t miss their Dining in Jazz evenings, where artists play just a few meters away from you, creating unique and intimate dining concert experiences.
Location: 26 Cr de Verdun Perrache, 69002 Lyon Operating Hours: Vary by day Instagram: Link
King Arthur (Lyon 2)
King Arthur is a 100% British pub with a lively atmosphere. Music naturally becomes a part of the experience, with opportunities for amateur musicians and regulars to take the stage. From impromptu performances to sing-alongs, the vibe is welcoming and inclusive.
Location: 10 Rue de la Monnaie, 69002 Lyon Operating Hours: Vary by day Instagram: Link
Ninkasi Cordeliers (Lyon 2)
Whether you’re into concerts, DJ sets, or just hanging out with friends, Ninkasi venues offer a vibrant atmosphere centered around the music scene. Rock, electro, rap, local discoveries… The Ninkasi spirit is alive and well, with various locations across Lyon hosting DJ sets and small concerts regularly. Don’t miss the Ninkasi Muzik Lab nights to discover the best of the local music scene.
Location: Ninkasi Cordeliers, 1 Rue du Président Carnot, 69002 Lyon Operating Hours: Vary by day Instagram: Link
Boomrang (Lyon 3)
If you’re in the Guillotière area, you can’t miss Boomrang. Located in the former Taverne Gutemberg, this spot blends rap, techno, and electro music. With a diverse lineup showcasing emerging Lyon artists through DJ sets, showcases, and open mic sessions, it’s the place to be for discovering new talents.
Location: 5 Rue de l’Épée, 69003 Lyon Operating Hours: 6:00 pm to 1:00 am (Tue-Sat) Instagram: Link
La Passagère (Lyon 3)
Situated on the banks of the Rhône, La Passagère is more than just a bar. Their selection ranges from soul, funk, rock, to jazz, offering a mix of intimate live performances and lively concerts. It’s a must-visit spot to immerse yourself in Lyon’s music scene.
Location: Pont Wilson berges du Rhône, 21 Quai Victor Augagneur, 69003 Lyon Operating Hours: 1:00 pm to 3:00 am (7 days a week) Instagram: Link
And of course, there are many other places like these in Lyon! Feel free to share your favorite spot for listening to live music in Lyon in the comments.
